what can I do to my '09 Toytota Corolla to make it have more "pep" to the engine when I push on the gas pedal?

There are a couple things that can be done to get a faster acceleration. unfortunately cars are governed so getting a faster top speed will require some aftermarket work at a performance shop (this voids waranty). but to get that 'pep' the cheapest way to go about this is with a larger more efficient air fiilter. the science behind this is that with more air available to combust, a larger explosion in the piston will become available and this improving power. now naturally with a larger air filter the next step would be to put an after market exhaust to increase the exhaust flow, further decreasing the restrictions placed on the engine due to combustion. now if you dont wanna go with adding extra parts to your car then i would suggest changing and upgrading the cars ECU for a performance one (these range in price from 50-500, a decent one will cost around 125). also i might add that using a higher octane fuel (premium) will also help increase engine combustion. so combining all these methods or just a few, should increase your cars performance noticeable. ps: if the car is automatic then the throttle will also be governed and there isnt much you can do unless you willing to spend quite abit of cash