Happy Labor Day!
Happy Labor Day from Thelen Honda and the rest of the Thelen Automotive Group in Bay City, Michigan! We hope you have a safe and fun holiday weekend. We will be closed August 30th through September 1st to give our staff extended time off to enjoy the holiday. We will reopen on Tuesday, September 2nd with sales open from 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. and our service department open 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Get to Know the 2026 Honda Passport
2026 Honda Passport Overview
The 2026 Honda Passport is crafted for those who love adventure without sacrificing comfort and style. With its rugged design and advanced technology, it stands out as a versatile SUV ready to tackle both urban streets and off-road trails. This overview will guide you through the Passport’s key features, showing what makes it a compelling choice for buyers in Mid-Michigan.
Exterior Design:
The 2026 Honda Passport boasts a robust exterior that reflects its adventurous spirit.
- The vehicle offers a commanding presence with its bold lines and muscular stance
- Choose from a variety of vibrant colors, including Sunset Orange, Obsidian Blue Pearl and Ash Green Metallic
- Equipped with gloss-black roof rails for ease of carrying gear
- 18” wheels with recessed valve stems for reduced chance of damage and improved durability
- LED daytime running lights, low-beam headlights, fog lights and brake lights
Performance:
With a powerful engine under the hood, the Passport delivers impressive performance tailored for diverse driving conditions.
- Powered by an all-aluminum 3.5-liter V6 engine creating 285 horsepower
- Equipped with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission
- Enhanced iVTM4™ all-wheel drive system ensures stability on snowy Michigan roads or rugged terrains
- Seven selectable drive modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Sand, Sport, Trail and Tow
- Up to 5000 lb towing capability
Interior and Comfort:
Step inside the Passport to experience comfort blended with cutting-edge technology.
- Spacious seating for up to five adults with heated front seats
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Wireless phone charger
- Power front seats : 10-way driver and four-way passenger
- 12.3-inch color touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay° / Android Auto
Safety / Driver Assist Features:
Safety is paramount in the 2026 Honda Passport, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. Driver assistance features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist
- Collision Mitigation Braking System and Forward Collision Warning
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Blind Spot Information System with Lane Change Assist
Reliability and Warranty:
Honda’s reputation for reliability extends to the Passport, backed by comprehensive warranties.
Limited Vehicle Warranty: 3-year / 36,000-mile
Powertrain Limited Warranty- 5-year / 60,000-mile
Learn More About the 2026 Honda Passport in Bay City Today
Ready to elevate your Central Michigan driving experience? Visit Thelen Honda in Bay City, MI today. Explore the 2026 Honda Passport and embark on your next adventure across Mid-Michigan’s landscapes.
Thelen Honda Wants to Be Your Michigan Honda Service Destination
The dedication of the Thelen Honda Service Center staff to making sure your cruiser is treated with the care and respect it deserves which is why so many local Honda drivers choose us for their servicing needs. In 2025, we want to help you understand why we are such a trusted destination in the Central Michigan region for quality maintenance and repair work. Between our excellent technicians and our emphasis on using quality OEM Honda parts in whatever service we do, your experience with us will be as hassle-free and informative as possible. After your vehicle is finished with us, you’ll also appreciate the maintained performance and added longevity between your maintenance appointments. Call us today at 989-671-1150 to schedule your appointment!
Reasons to Trust the Thelen Honda Service Technicians for Premium Service
- The Advantage of OEM Honda Parts in Our Services – What are the advantages of having OEM Honda parts used in your service when compared to aftermarket options? The most important one is the overall vehicle longevity that the parts designed by Honda for their vehicles provide. Aftermarket parts can reduce the overall health of your Honda because they aren’t designed for that specific vehicle by the brand. As such, OEM Honda parts immediately have a significant advantage. Additionally, these parts help maintain the overall performance you expect from your vehicle and prevent long-term performance degradation. This is why we strive to only use OEM parts and various other brand-recommended components in our services.
- Knowledgeable & Friendly Service Center Staff – We understand that you want to be confident that those working on your vehicle have the expertise to handle any repair or routine service your Honda is being brought in for. This is why our technicians have the dedicated training to handle any service from oil changes to more extensive repairs, such as brakes and engine needs. If you ever have questions about a potential service that needs to be done on your Honda, we invite you to speak with a staff member who will take the time to make sure you’re thoroughly informed about the process.
(Photo Credit: iStock)
Get to Know the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid
2026 Honda CR‑V Hybrid Overview
The 2026 Honda CR‑V Hybrid brings efficiency and versatility to compact SUV buyers. Its 204‑horsepower two‑motor hybrid system delivers brisk acceleration with excellent fuel economy. With hybrid trims offering sporty styling, rugged options like TrailSport, and a full suite of safety features, it’s a smart choice for drivers across Mid‑Michigan.
Honda CR-V Hybrid Exterior Design
Hybrid trims—Sport Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, Sport‑L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid—feature a bold, athletic look. Highlights include:
- Standard on three trim levels- 18”or 19” gloss‑black alloy wheels, while the Trailsport Hybrid features 18” shark grey alloys
- Sport styling: Active Shutter grille and dual chrome exhaust finishers
- LED headlights, taillights and side mirror turn indicators
- One-touch power moonroof with tilt feature
Performance
- 2‑motor hybrid powertrain produces 204 horsepower
- Drive mode options allow you to personalize your driving experience (four available modes on all but the top trim level which adds ‘Individual’ mode)
- Available or standard, depending on trim level, Real Time AWD™ with Intelligent Control System provides traction in snow, offering confidence on icy Mid‑Michigan roads
- Easy-to-read power meter allows the driver to monitor the hybrid battery power output and its recharging process
Interior and Comfort
- Five-passenger capacity with flexible 60/40 split folding rear seats
- Ten-way power adjustable driver seat
- Dual-zone climate control and heated front seats
- Ambient interior lighting
- Technology: 9″ color touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless phone charger, wi-fi hotspot capability (with data plan)
Safety Features
- Honda Sensing® driver-assist suite standard across all trims and includes features such as: adaptive cruise control with low‑speed follow, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, traffic sign recognition, blind spot information system, driver attention monitor and forward collision warning
- Upper trim levels add parking sensors (front and rear) and low speed braking control
Reliability and Warranty
Honda’s longstanding reputation for dependability carries on in the CR‑V Hybrid. Warranty coverage includes:
- 3‑year / 36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited warranty
- 5‑year / 60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
- 8‑year / 100,000-mile High Voltage Battery Capacity Warranty
Learn More About the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid in Bay City, Michigan
Ready to learn more about how to elevate your Central Michigan driving experience? Contact Thelen Honda in Bay City, MI to learn more about the 2026 Honda CR‑V Hybrid lineup. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged TrailSport Hybrid or refined Sport Touring Hybrid, Thelen Honda offers expert guidance tailored to drivers across Mid‑Michigan.
Thelen Honda Can Work With Individuals With Less-Than-Perfect Credit
Shopping for a vehicle when you are experiencing affected credit can be a stressful and daunting thought. However, there is nothing to worry about when you shop with Thelen Honda in Bay City, MI. Our finance experts are eager to assist you in finding the best possible finance rates for your credit. While we can’t guarantee approval, we make every effort to find fiinancing for you, whether you are experiencing slow credit or no credit. Below, we will go over some of our tips for shopping with a lower credit score. Stop into our mid-Michigan dealership when looking for your next preowned or new Honda model!
Things to Know When Shopping with a Lower Credit Score
- Higher Average Monthly Payments – An unfortunate side effect of a lower credit score is a higher monthly interest rate. With a higher interest rate, you have to pay more per month compared to someone with similar terms and a better credit score. However, there are ways you can reduce the monthly payments. For example, you can put more money into your down payment, and this will reduce your monthly payments. If you have a current vehicle you’re planning on trading in, this is another great way to reduce the monthly payments.
- Pick the Style of Vehicle You Need & Fits Your Budget – To get a head start on rebuilding your credit, you need to shop for a vehicle that comfortably fits into your budget. While this could mean picking a vehicle with higher miles than you’d normally like or omitting features you would like to have, the financial benefits will quickly prove their worth. If you would like help finding out what vehicles you can comfortably afford on your budget, feel free to speak with one of our sales or finance experts. They will make sure you’re getting into a vehicle that works for you and that you’ll enjoy.
(Photo Credit: PEXELS)
Get to Know the 2026 Honda HR-V
2026 Honda HR‑V Overview
A compact SUV redefined. The 2026 Honda HR‑V brings sharp styling, updated tech, and strong versatility. Ideal for Mid‑Michigan drivers navigating snow, challenging roads and lakeside escapes from Bay City to Midland.
Exterior Design
- Honeycomb grille with angled LED headlights and brake lights and the sloping roofline providing style that will turn heads
- Wheel options by trim:
- LX: 17″ Pewter Gray alloy wheels
- Sport: 18″ Gloss Black alloy wheels
- EX‑L: Machine-finished 18” alloy wheels with Berlina Black inserts
Trim Levels & Pricing
LX– from $26,200 MSRP
Sport– from $28,000 MSRP
EX-L– from $30,050 MSRP
Performance
- Inline-4 cylinder engine delivers 158 hp
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) delivers consistent power
- Standard front-wheel drive; Real‑Time AWD™ available with hill descent and hill start assist
- Dynamic Drive Mode Selector allows the driver to choose from Econ, Normal and Snow modes, providing the optimal Mid-Michigan driving experience
Interior & Comfort
- Seating for five; 60/40 fold-down rear seats: 24.4 cu ft cargo with seats up and 55.1 cu ft folded down
- Heated front seats on Sport and EX-L trim levels
- Tech features across lineup: 9″ color touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™, wireless phone charging
- Automatic Climate Control system to optimize all-weather comfort
Safety Features
- Honda Sensing® suite standard on all trims: Collision Mitigation Braking System™, forward collision braking, adaptive cruise with low-speed follow, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, driving attention monitor, auto high-beam headlights
- Sport/EX‑L add blind-spot info system and rear-cross traffic monitor
Reliability & Warranty
- Honda’s reputation for long-term dependability
- Warranty: 3‑yr or 36,000‑mile limited; 5‑yr or 60,000-mile powertrain; 3-year or 36,000-mile roadside assistance
Learn More About the 2026 Honda HR-V
Ready to elevate your driving experience? Visit Thelen Honda in Bay City, MI, to explore the 2026 Honda HR‑V lineup in Central Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region. Take the wheel of your dream SUV today!
Make the Most Of Your Test Drive
Buying a new or new-to-you Honda is a big decision, and by taking a test drive, you can determine whether you’ve picked the right option for your specific wants and needs. We consider the test drive one of the most important steps to take when deciding on either a new or a used option. Take this opportunity to test out features and take on different roads to make a decision. Here are some ways you can maximize your test drive!
Five Tips We Recommend For Your Test Drive
Get in the Driver’s Seat – Adjusting the driver’s seat to your height and comfort level might seem obvious, but it’s important! Adjust your mirrors, play around with the radio, familiarize yourself with the vents… these are all things you usually do anyway. This could even include seeing if your phone pairs with the vehicle’s Bluetooth easily.
Picture Your Cargo – Whether it’s your children, a car seat, or just a trunk full of groceries or sports gear, be sure you are buying a vehicle with enough space. By bringing family members or essentials to the test drive, it allows you to check legroom and trunk space to know if a vehicle is big enough for your needs.
Get a Sense of Ride Comfort – Alongside testing legroom and other space, when you are driving the vehicle, is when you can get a sense of suspension and the comfort of the ride for all passengers. This is especially helpful during a test drive of a used vehicle.
Evaluate the Acceleration and Braking Power – Picture your daily commute or the roads you frequent – are there any steep hills? By testing both the acceleration and braking power, you can determine whether the power is suitable for your driving style. If you still like the vehicle but aren’t impressed with the power, ask to see a higher trim level.
Test the Handling – Taking the vehicle on a highway drive, winding roads, and bumpy roads can give you a clear picture of how the vehicle will handle different driving conditions. Be sure to ask for recommendations on roads to try out with the salesperson.
Schedule a Test Drive at Thelen Honda in Michigan
For a quality Honda and a positive test-driving experience, visit Thelen Honda in Bay City, Michigan! Our team of friendly and knowledgeable salespeople will ensure you find the perfect Honda for you and perform a thorough test drive.
(Photo Credit: iStock)
Get to Know the 2026 Honda CR-V
2026 Honda CR‑V Overview
The all-new 2026 Honda CR‑V offers a smart blend of comfort, efficiency, tech, and off-road capability—ideal for families and individuals in Mid‑Michigan navigating both highways and gravel trails. With three available turbocharged trim levels (and available hybrid versions not discussed here), it’s built to be versatile across Great Lakes Bay Region conditions.
Exterior Design
The 2026 CR‑V displays a clean, athletic profile with crisp lines and a confident stance. Highlights:
- Rugged and capable design that doesn’t sacrifice on style
- Aggressive 18” alloy wheels
- TrailSport trim adds enhanced rugged styling cues. Choose the eye-catching TrailSport exclusive Ash Green Metallic exterior paint.
Performance
- Powerful 1.5L Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine, paired to an efficient CVT transmission
- Available all-wheel drive with Intelligent Control™
- Drive Modes: ECON, Normal, or Snow for optimized driving
Interior and Comfort
Sporty and feature-filled interior available across trims:
- Spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for five
- Standard across lineup:
- Large 9” HD color touchscreen
- Either 7” or 10.2” driver information interface screen
- Wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
- Wireless charging
Safety Features
- All trims include Honda Sensing® suite of driver aids—adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, collision mitigation braking, blind spot information—standard.
- Honda’s exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) emphasizes body structure and next-generation airbag technology
Learn More About the 2026 Honda CR-V Today
With its rugged and spacious interior, variety of trim levels, and full suite of modern tech and safety features, the 2026 CR‑V is a top contender for buyers in Mid‑Michigan seeking a dependable and versatile compact SUV. The 2026 Honda CR-V is not yet available but you can count on the experts at Thelen Honda in Bay City, MI to tell you more!
Award-Winning Honda Odyssey
One Honda model earned the Highest Initial Quality Award in the 2025 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study. The Honda Odyssey, made at the company’s Alabama Auto Plant, earned the top initial quality award in its respective segment. The U.S. Initial Quality Study, now in its 39th year, is based this year on responses from thousands of purchasers and lessees of new 2025 model-year vehicles who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study additionally incorporates repair visit data based on hundreds of thousands of real-world events reported to franchised new-vehicle dealers.
The 2025 Honda Odyssey
The 2025 Honda Odyssey stands as a premier choice for families seeking a blend of comfort, technology, and safety. With its spacious interior, advanced features, and reliable performance, the Odyssey caters to the diverse needs of drivers in Mid-Michigan. Whether navigating snowy roads or embarking on long road trips, this minivan offers versatility and peace of mind.
Learn More About the 2025 Honda Odyssey
The 2025 Honda Odyssey offers a trim level for every family’s needs, combining safety, comfort, and innovation. Ready to elevate your driving experience? Visit Thelen Honda in Bay City, Michigan, conveniently located near Saginaw and Midland, to explore the Odyssey lineup tailored for the Greater Bay Region and Central Michigan.
What Are the 2025 Honda Pilot Trim Levels?
2025 Honda Pilot Trim Levels
The 2025 Honda Pilot is a full-size, three-row SUV powered by a responsive 285‑hp V‑6 and a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. It offers AWD availability across trims, rugged TrailSport trim capabilities, and refined Elite/Black Edition comfort. Ideal for families, weekend adventurers, and Mid‑Michigan drivers facing snow and varied terrain, it blends capability and comfort with Honda’s reputation for reliability
Trim Levels & Pricing
- Sport- from $40,200 MSRP. Highlights include 20″ alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control. Personalize your drive with the drive mode selector: Normal, ECON, Snow, Tow or Sport modes. Safety and driver assistance are a main focus thanks to the Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Road Departure Mitigation System, Blind Spot Information System, and Adaptive Cruise Control. It’s a strong choice for buyers seeking value with an upscale feel in everyday driving.
- EX-L- from $43,500 MSRP. Building on the Sport trim, the EX-L wireless phone charger and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Also highlighted on this trim is leather-trimmed seating, programmable power tailgate, climate controls for the second row and front / rear parking sensors.
- EX‑L w/ HPD Wheels- from $45,400 MSRP. Takes all the EX-L trim offers and adds stylish HPD wheels. It mixes practicality and flair nicely, without pushing into luxury pricing.
- TrailSport- from $49,400 MSRP. Geared toward the outdoor enthusiast, the TrailSport trim builds on many aspects of the EX-L but with a focus on adventuring capabilities. It is only available in AWD and adds two additional drive modes: Trail and Sand. It brings nearly 1″ more ground clearance, skid plates, trailer hitch, 18” wheels with all-terrain tires, durable synthetic leather upholstery with orange interior stitching, and all-season floor mats. A multi-view camera system with TrailWatch® makes it ideal for rural Michigan gravel roads or snowbound trails. Add on a heated steering wheel, power panoramic sunroof and second row captain’s chairs for ultimate comfort and enjoyment.
- Touring- from $47,500 MSRP. The Touring trim enhances comfort and convenience, building on the EX-L. It offers power panoramic moonroof, Hands-Free Power Tailgate with Walk-Away Close, and a Bose premium sound system. A popular addition is the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation system. The Touring trim perfectly balances family-friendly features with upscale touches.
- Touring w/ HPD Wheels- from $49,400 MSRP. Everything you love about the Touring trim but with the addition of sporty HPD wheels.
- Elite- from $53,080 MSRP. The Elite stands out with luxury touches: Head-Up (HUD) Display, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and second-row outboard seats plus the Multi-View Camera System with front camera washer. Standard AWD ensures confidence in winter conditions.
- Black Edition- from $54,580 MSRP. Taking all the features of the Elite and adding unique aesthetics, the Black Edition features unique red-stitch perforated leather seats, Gloss Black 20″ alloy wheels, and Gloss Black exterior mirrors.
Learn More About the 2025 Honda Pilot Trim Levels
The 2025 Honda Pilot blends performance, comfort, and capability. For Mid‑Michigan families and adventure seekers, it checks all the boxes. Ready to elevate your driving experience? Visit Thelen Honda in Bay City, MI, to experience the full lineup and find the perfect Pilot for your lifestyle.
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