A few weeks back at SEMA Toyota gained fanfare when they unveiled the 2009 Matrix. I say fanfare because SEMA is not usually the venue to show off new OEM stock product. But Toyota did, and now Chevy unleashes the next salvo in LA, the 2009 Vibe, its head on challenger to the Matrix.

The ‘09 Vibe comes in three trim levels–base, AWD and GT. The redesign marks the return of all-wheel drive and the GT trim level to the Vibe lineup.

Base engine for the Vibe is a 1.8-liter, inline four with variable valve timing. The engine produces 132 hp and 128 ft-lb of torque. It comes with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

A 2.4-liter inline four is the standard engine for the AWD and GT, and optional on the base Vibe. The top line engine is rated at 158 hp and 162 ft-lb of torque.

All models are produced with four-wheel disc brakes, ABS and stability control

The Vibe will hit showroom floors in early 2008.