A closed loop shift control apparatus and method, based on Reibelementlast, controls the torque-transition phase when switching from a low gear configuration to a high gear configuration for an automatic transmission system. When pressure-actuated friction elements selectively engaged or released to create the torque flow paths in the transmission, are measurements or estimates of the torsional load, the non-engaging element is applied to the, is used to predict the optimal release time point of the coming out of engagement friction element to a to achieve consistent shift feel. The ideal time for releasing the coming out of engagement frictional element is only defined when the torque load exerted on the coming out of engagement friction element, is substantially zero. An engaging process of coming into engagement frictional element is controlled by a closed-loop control based on measurements or estimates of the transmission torque capacity of the friction element coming into engagement to obtain a constant shift feel under dynamically changing conditions.