2026 Subaru Forester Overview

The 2026 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV designed for practicality, all-weather capability and everyday usability. Built with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), it suits drivers in Mid-Michigan who may face snowy winters, wet roads near the Great Lakes Bay Region and mixed commuting conditions.

Exterior Design

The Forester presents a modern design that emphasizes function and visibility. Its roofline offers generous headroom and its squared-off rear enhances cargo access—useful for hauling gear for trips near Saginaw or Midland.

• Sculpted front fascia with bold and stylish grille
• LED Steering Responsive Headlights
• 17”, 18” or 19” aluminum-alloy wheels depending on the trim level
• Adventure-ready 8.7-inch ground clearance takes on rough terrains with ease
• Most trim levels add standard LED fog lights, panoramic moonroof, windshield wiper de-ice and heated side mirrors.

Performance

For 2026, the Forester carries over the tried-and-true powertrain and capability.

• 2.5-liter Subaru BOXER® four-cylinder engine delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission is a Lineartronic® continuously variable automatic (CVT) with upper trims adding an eight-speed manual mode
• Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system offers extra traction for Mid-Michigan winters, making the Forester a solid choice for snowy or wet conditions in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
• Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) provides two distinct vehicle performance modes
• X-MODE® is on all but the Base trim level and provides snow/dirt and deep snow/mud settings.  The Wilderness trim adds low speed/low ratio gradient control.
• Maximum towing capacity: 1500 lbs; Wilderness trim: 3500 lbs

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Forester offers seating for five with generous headroom and legroom, making it well-suited for families or groups exploring central Michigan or handling school runs around Bay City.

• Comfortable cloth, SynTex® or leather-trimmed seating depending on trim
• Dual zone automatic climate control system
• Feature-filled multimedia system controlled by a 7” or 11.6” touchscreen
• All but Base trim offer heated front seats and wireless device charger

Driver Assist / Safety Features

Safety driver assistance features are a stand-out in the Forester.  Subaru’s standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology provides systems to make every drive more certain.

• Automatic Emergency Steering
• Pre-Collision Braking
• Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
• Lane-Keep Assist
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning

Learn More About the 2026 Subaru Forester in Bay City, Michigan

Ready to learn more about the Michigan adventure-ready 2026 Subaru Forester?  Visit Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI, serving the Mid-Michigan and Great Lakes Bay Region, to learn more and discover a vehicle built for the road ahead.

Verification Disclaimer:
All information in this overview was sourced directly from the official manufacturer’s website and is accurate to the best of our knowledge.

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Financing Made Easy in Michigan

When it comes to financing a new or used vehicle, the options can be overwhelming. New Subaru and preowned vehicle financing through the expert Finance Center at Thelen Subaru in Bay City, Michigan offers several unique benefits that you might not get from securing your own financing.

Why Should I Choose Thelen Subaru for Financing?

• Customized Financing Solutions – As a dealership, we are highly motivated to sell cars, and that works to your advantage when it comes to financing. Because of this motivation, we are often able to work with you to create customized financing solutions that meet your specific needs and budget. Whether you have excellent credit, less-than-perfect credit, or are a first-time buyer, our Central Michigan finance team strives to tailor a loan package that suits your situation. This personalized approach ensures that you get the best possible deal.
• Potential Cost Savings – Securing a good interest rate is crucial for long-term cost savings. Even a small difference in the interest rate can significantly impact the total amount you pay over the life of the loan. By leveraging our connections with various lenders, you can often secure a more competitive rate than you would on your own. This can result in lower monthly payments and less interest paid over time, freeing up more of your budget for other expenses or savings.

Choose Thelen Subaru Finance Center in Bay City for Vehicle Financing

In-house Subaru financing at Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI, offers a host of benefits that can make your car buying experience more affordable, convenient, and tailored to your needs. From manufacturer’s incentivized interest rates to access to multiple lenders and streamlined processes, choosing to finance through us can save you both time and money.

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Get to Know: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek continues to deliver a compelling blend of Subaru’s trademark all-weather capability and everyday versatility, with a powerful engine across the board for sharper driving in Mid-Michigan conditions. With standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), raised ground clearance and a modern interior, it appeals both to local commuters and those ready for lakeshore weekend adventures. For drivers near Saginaw, Midland or Bay City, this model offers the right balance of practicality, comfort and rugged readiness.

Exterior Design

The exterior of the 2026 Crosstrek features Subaru’s robust crossover styling, combining a confident stance with functional touches.

• Bold wheel-arch cladding and roof rails on some trim levels give it a rugged yet urban-friendly look.
• Standard LED headlights with steering-responsive function help visibility on Michigan’s winding roads and snowy nights.  All but the base trim level add LED fog lights.
• Color offerings span both solid and available contrasting-roof finishes, giving style flexibility.
• Ground clearance remains suited for off-road use and winter roads, enabling confidence when venturing beyond the pavement.  The ground clearance on most trim levels is 8.7-inches, while the Wilderness trim offers 9.3” clearance.
• Stylish 17” or 18” aluminum-alloy wheels

Performance

Under the hood, the 2026 non-hybrid Crosstrek trims are powered by a single engine choice, driving through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard AWD.

• Engine: 2.5-litre Subaru BOXER® flat-four.  With this capable engine, the Crosstrek is better able to merge and handle mid-Michigan streets and highway passes.  
• Output: 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission: Standard Lineartronic CVT with eight-speed manual and paddle shifters
• Off-road and winter readiness: The AWD system paired with raised clearance means this vehicle is well-suited for snow-covered roads and lakeside terrain.
• Standard Dual-Function X-MODE® provides the driver the ability to choose an optimal driving experience, from modes such as Snow/ Dirt or Deep Snow / Mud.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 2026 Crosstrek balances comfort, technology and utility—important for Michigan commuters and weekend getaways alike.

• Seating: Five occupants standard, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat to expand cargo capacity for gear, bikes or supplies for a Great Lakes Bay Region outing.
• Infotainment: Base trim provides a dual 7.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system. For higher trims you’ll find an 11.6-inch touchscreen multimedia display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®.
• Materials: Depending on trim you’ll see cloth, SynTex® or leather trim seating and available power driver’s seat. 
• Comfort: Count on the dual-zone automatic climate control system to keep the Crosstrek at the perfect temperature year round.  Upper trim levels add heated front seats and heated steering wheel for dependable winter comfort.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Safety is a strong suit of the Crosstrek, with technology and build quality aimed at protecting driver and passengers.

• Standard suite: Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control with lane centering.
• Additional features: At higher trims or via options you’ll find Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, and DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation
• Build quality: The Crosstrek’s structure and all-wheel drive system enhance stability and handling in snow, rain and gravel roads—key considerations for the Great Lakes Bay Region’s variable conditions

Learn More About the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek

Ready to elevate your driving experience? Visit Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI and learn more about the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek. Whether you’re commuting on I-75, exploring state parks near Midland, or navigating winter roads in Central Michigan, this vehicle is built to handle it all—stop in today and discover your next adventure.

Verification Disclaimer:
All information in this overview was sourced directly from the official manufacturer’s website and is accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Tags: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, Bay City, Great Lakes Bay Region, Michigan, Mid-Michigan, Symmetrical AWD, Thelen Subaru
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New or CPO Subaru?

When you are ready to start the vehicle purchasing process, deciding between a new and a Certified PreOwned Subaru is a large decision. There are benefits to both options but either option means a quality Subaru for you to enjoy! Whichever you choose, Thelen Subaru in Bay City, Michigan, is ready to assist you through the vehicle purchasing process. We offer a large selection of new and CPO Subaru models to choose from, so stop in today to take a test drive!

Should I Choose a New or CPO Subaru?

• New Subaru – There are many benefits to purchasing a brand-new Subaru! First and foremost, you will put almost every mile on your new vehicle when you purchase it. You will also be backed by warranties and enjoy the most up-to-date technologies and features. If you order it, you can also customize your purchase to your wants and needs. However, with buying a new car, it is usually more expensive at time of purchase. Plus, you never know what the future holds for the resale value once you’re ready to switch vehicles.

• Certified PreOwned Subaru – The Subaru Certified PreOwned program will provide you with numerous benefits if you opt for a gently used CPO vehicle: 7-year/100,00-mile powertrain warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a full CarFax vehicle history report. Plus, a Subaru must pass a 152-point safety inspection in order to qualify for the program. That means you get some of the benefits of buying a new vehicle, while experiencing money saving benefits of a preowned model. Some challenges might include less inventory choices, not being able to choose custom features, and they are still technically a used vehicles.

Let Thelen Subaru Help You Find Your Next Subaru Model!

We keep an excellent selection of both new and CPO models at our Bay City dealership, convenient to Saginaw, Midland, Mt. Pleasant and Gladwin. Stop by today and let us introduce you to some of the great options to meet your needs for an exceptional Mid-Michigan driving experience. Or, give us a call at (989) 671-1151 to schedule a test drive.

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Tags: Bay City, Michigan, Thelen Subaru
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2026 Subaru Solterra Trim Levels

The 2026 Subaru Solterra marks the next evolution of Subaru’s all-electric SUV, designed for drivers who want advanced EV technology without giving up all-weather traction and versatility. Every trim offers standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and dual-motor power, making it ideal for Michigan’s snowy winters and unpredictable road conditions. The lineup now includes five trims—each offering a balance of performance, comfort, and innovation that reflects Subaru’s rugged yet refined DNA.

Solterra Premium

The Solterra Premium sets the foundation for Subaru’s electric adventure. With capable AWD, advanced safety, and a spacious cabin, it provides the essentials EV buyers expect from Subaru reliability.

Highlights:

• 233-hp all-electric dual-motor drivetrain
• Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Dual-Function X-MODE®
• EyeSight® Driver Assist Technologies, including Traffic Jam Assist, Front Cross-Traffic Alert and Active Lane Change Assist
• DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System and Blind-Spot Monitor
• 14-inch Subaru Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, 1-year free Cloud Navigation and Intelligent Assistant trial, and dual wireless device charger
• StarTex® water-repellent upholstery with heated front seats
• 18” alloy wheels

Available Exterior Colors:
Harbor Mist Gray Pearl, Astro Black Mica, Smoked Carbon, Elemental Red Pearl

Solterra Limited

Stepping up to the Limited trim brings refined comfort and convenience features, creating a balance between efficiency and everyday luxury. It builds on the Premium trim but introduces upscale design and technology touches.

Highlights:

• Harman Kardon® premium audio system
• Panoramic View Monitor
• Power-adjustable front seats
• Heated rear outboard seats and heated steering wheel
• Hands-free, foot-activated power rear gate
• 20-inch gray and machine-finish alloy wheels

Available Exterior Colors:
Harbor Mist Gray Pearl, Astro Black Mica, Smoked Carbon, Elemental Red Pearl

Solterra Limited XT

The Limited XT builds on the Limited trim but upgrades the Solterra’s performance to deliver stronger acceleration and sportier response. It’s the choice for drivers who want a bit more excitement in their daily drive.

Highlights:

• 338-hp high-output all-electric drivetrain

Available Exterior Colors:
Harbor Mist Gray Pearl, Astro Black Mica, Smoked Carbon, Elemental Red Pearl, Cosmic White Pearl, Midnight Tide Mica

Solterra Touring XT

Building on the Limited XT trim, the Touring XT adds sophistication and warmth to the Solterra experience. Designed for Michigan winters and year-round comfort, it’s where performance meets premium living.

Highlights:

• Panoramic glass roof for an open, airy cabin
• Smart rear-view mirror for better visibility in any weather
• Heated and ventilated front seats for year-round comfort
• Radiant cabin heat for driver and front passenger

Available Exterior Colors:
Harbor Mist Gray Pearl Two Tone, Astro Black Mica, Smoked Carbon Two Tone, Elemental Red Pearl Two Tone, Cosmic White Pearl, Midnight Tide Mica, Midnight Tide Mica Two Tone

Solterra Touring XT Leather

The Touring XT Leather stands as the pinnacle of Subaru’s 2026 Solterra lineup. It blends the highest level of craftsmanship with all the technology and power found in the Touring XT. Ideal for drivers who want everything Subaru’s electric SUV can offer.

Highlights:

• Leather-trimmed upholstery for a refined interior feel
• Exceptional comfort and design for a premium driving experience

Available Exterior Colors:
Harbor Mist Gray Pearl Two Tone, Astro Black Mica, Smoked Carbon Two Tone, Cosmic White Pearl Two Tone, Midnight Tide Mica Two Tone

Learn More About the 2026 Subaru Solterra Trim Levels in Bay City

The 2026 Subaru Solterra lineup proves that electric driving can be adventurous, capable, and luxurious. From the well-equipped Premium to the indulgent Touring XT Leather, each trim brings a distinct mix of technology and Subaru confidence to Michigan roads. With instant EV torque, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and next-generation safety, it’s built to conquer Mid-Michigan’s winters and summer road trips alike.  Visit Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI, and discover which 2026 Solterra fits your lifestyle best.

Tags: 2026 Subaru Solterra, Bay City, Electric Vehicle, EV, Michigan, Mid-Michigan, Symmetrical AWD, Thelen Subaru
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Subaru Services at Thelen Subaru

During fall we deal with unpredictable weather such as rain and sometimes even snow! Now is the perfect time to get your Subaru vehicle in for important vehicle servicing. You can expect professional service when you bring your Subaru into Thelen Subaru in Bay City, Michigan. Our Subaru factory-certified dealership service department is located conveniently in the Great Lakes Bay Region of Mid-Michigan. Our certified Subaru expert technicians are eager to keep your Subaru car, wagon, crossover, or SUV running at peak performance you can depend on. You can use our helpful appointment scheduler on our website or give us a call at (989) 324-3034.

Our Recommendations for Servicing Your Subaru

• Battery Check – Don’t ignore your vehicle’s battery or you could wind up inconvenienced with a dead battery. If you haven’t had your battery checked in a long time before the changing of the seasons is the best time. A new battery will fare better in the colder weather!

• Tires – Have you been going on more road trips during the summer? Checking the tread and air pressure in your tires is not only important for efficiency but for safety too. If you notice the tread on your tires is getting low or you have more air pressure problems, it is time to get a good set of tires for wet weather.

• Windshield Wipers and Fluid – With the rain more prevalent in autumn than summer, replacing your windshield wipers is important. You don’t want streaks or windshield wipers that are deteriorating while you’re driving. Checking your wiper fluid reservoir and topping it up will benefit you, too.

• Heater Test – There’s nothing like being blasted in the face by cold air instead of heated air when the weather outside is already cold! Test out your heater now before the cold weather hits. Then you will have time to get it serviced if it does not seem to be working optimally.

(Photo Credit: iStock)

Tags: Bay City, Michigan, Service Center, Thelen Subaru
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2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Trim Levels

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a compact SUV that combines Subaru’s legendary all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability with hybrid efficiency. This model is perfect for those who seek adventure without compromising on fuel economy. With its advanced hybrid powertrain, the Crosstrek Hybrid offers a blend of performance, safety, and technology, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious drivers in Mid-Michigan.

Trims and Pricing

Sport Hybrid from $33,995 MSRP

• Features:
  • Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Dual-function X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control
  • Efficient 194-hp hybrid electric drivetrain
  • Stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with Dark Gray finish, power moonroof and LED Steering Responsive Headlights
  • 11.6-inch Subaru Multimedia Navigation with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless device charge, fully digital cluster
  • Sport Cloth upholstery with yellow accents
  • EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Limited Hybrid  from $34,995 MSRP

• Features (builds on Sport Hybrid):
  • Harman Kardon® premium audio system
  • Perforated Gray StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, heated steering wheel
  • DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System, Reverse Automatic Braking, Automatic Emergency Steering

Learn More About the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid in Bay City, Michigan

Ready to elevate your Mid-Michigan driving experience? Visit Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI, and explore the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Discover your next adventure in the heart of Central Michigan.

Tags: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, Bay City, Great Lakes Bay Region, Michigan, Mid-Michigan, Symmetrical AWD, Thelen Subaru
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Subaru Just Keeps Winning Awards!

It was recently announced that Subaru was named #1 overall in the 2025 American Customer Satisfaction Index Automobile Study! This win highlights Subaru’s dedication to improving safety and dependability in their vehicles. This study and rankings are based on customers’ opinions of their own vehicles, and results are reported on a 100-point scale, with Subaru earning an 85.

Subaru’s History with the American Customer Satisfaction Study

In the most recent 2024 and 2025 study, Subaru has ranked:

• #1 Brand for Vehicle Safety
• #1 Brand for Product Quality
• #1 Brand for Overall Product and Service Quality
• #1 Brand for Perceived Value
• #1 Brand for Dependability
• #1 Brand for Driving Performance

Many of these accolades have been accumulated for Subaru over the course of years – with Subaru continuing to impress the general public.

Find Your Ideal Subaru at Thelen Subaru

At Thelen Subaru, we keep an excellent selection of both new and CPO models at our Bay City dealership, convenient to Saginaw, Midland, Mt. Pleasant and Gladwin. Stop by today and let us introduce you to some of the great options to meet your needs for an exceptional Mid-Michigan driving experience. Or, give us a call at 989-200-3740 to schedule a test drive.

Tags: Bay City, Michigan, Thelen Subaru
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2026 Subaru Uncharted Trim Levels

The 2026 Subaru Uncharted is crafted for those who seek adventure and versatility. This EV blends advanced technology with robust performance, making it ideal for the varied driving conditions of Mid-Michigan. Whether navigating snowy roads or exploring off-road trails, the Uncharted provides a reliable and thrilling experience.

Trims and Pricing

Premium FWD

• Exterior Design: Sleek, aerodynamic lines, 8.3” of ground clearance, power liftgate and 18” alloy wheels
• Interior Features: Comfortable seating for five with high-quality materials, power driver’s seat, All Weather Package with heated front seats, and interior ambient lighting
• Infotainment System: Subaru 14.0” touchscreen multimedia system, wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™, and dual wireless device chargers
• Performance: Responsive 221-horsepower advanced all-electric powertrain, 20% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes, battery preconditioning system for optimized all-weather charging
• Safety Features: EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology (Includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking and more), blind-spot monitoring and DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation system.

Sport  Builds on the Premium FWD trim:

• Interior Features: Heated steering wheel, StarTex® water-repellant upholstery, power passenger’s seat
• Engine Performance: Engine delivers 338 hp, dual-function X-MODE® with grip control, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
• Safety Tech: Traffic Jam Assist, active lane change assist, front cross-traffic alert and 360-degree surround view monitor

GT  Builds on the Sport trim:

• Exterior Design: Panoramic glass roof with motorized shade, 20-inch alloy wheels, and optional two-tone paint
• Interior Features: Ventilated front seats and heated rear outboard seats
• Infotainment: Harmon Kardon® premium audio system
• Safety Features: Smart rearview mirror

Learn More About the 2026 Subaru Uncharted

Ready to learn more about the Subaru Uncharted? Contact Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI today! Let our Subaru experts tell you more about this exciting vehicle, including how you can be one of the first in Mid-Michigan to drive home in one! 

Tags: 2026 Subaru Uncharted, Bay City, Great Lakes Bay Region, Michigan, Mid-Michigan, Symmetrical AWD, Thelen Subaru
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Join Us On Saturday, September 13th for Our Grand Opening!

Join us for the Grand Opening of our new Thelen Subaru Bay City store which is now featuring:

• Full Subaru Service & Parts Department
• Spacious, comfortable customer lounge
• Bigger showroom for more vehicles
• Expanded service bays to get you back on the road faster

We will be doing giveaways & raffles with prizes like iPads, Apple Watches, AirPods, Stanley cups, portable power banks & more! Food trucks serving up some local favorites, there will be live music, and exclusive deals for attendees.

So be sure to join us for our grand opening from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.!

Tags: Bay City, Michigan, Thelen Subaru
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