The New Mantis 5.1 From TAXA Outdoors
New RV models for 2023 are already being announced, and one of the most exciting newcomers is the Mantis 5.1 from TAXA Outdoors. This compact trailer boasts a flexible design that accommodates all of the needs of its passengers. With former NASA designer Garrett Finney at the helm, you can rest assured that the new model will be high-quality and high-tech.
TAXA Outdoors is well known for its pop-up camper trailers (referred to as “habitats” by the brand). The Mantis is an existing product line, and the Mantis 5.1 is the latest addition to the family. It joins its predecessors, the Mantis Overland and the Mantis 4.1.
This new habitat is impressively designed and has everything you need for a lifetime of adventure. Now let’s take a look at some of the specifications and best new features of this trailer. With the Mantis 5.1 now available, 2023 is shaping up to be a great year for RV enthusiasts!
Vehicle specs
The newest member of the TAXA Outdoors family is built to last. Although the Mantis 5.1 is fairly compact, with its 19-foot length, the trailer still manages to pack in a lot of amenities and storage space. At least four adults can sleep comfortably in this habitat, so don’t let the smaller size fool you!
Below are some of the relevant vehicle specs. For a full list of specs and details, visit the Mantis 5.1 product page here.
| Specs | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Exterior Length | 19′ |
| Exterior Width | 7’6″ |
| Exterior Height (closed) | 6’9″ |
| Exterior Height (open) | 9’10” |
| Interior Width (max) | 6’10” |
| Interior Height (closed) | 4’7″ |
| Interior Height (open) | 5’11” to 7’10” |
| Fresh Water Tank | 20 gal |
| Grey Water Tank | 22 gal |
| Tires | 235/75R15 |
| Ground Clearance | 11″ |
| Tongue Weight (depends on loading) | 435 lbs |
| Dry Weight | 3,115 lbs |
| GVWR | 4,200 lbs |
| Cargo Capacity | 1,028 lbs |
| Square Footage | 105 sq ft |
Work station
This trailer has a wonderfully adaptable design that enables it to transform according to the needs of the passengers. As more and more people take their work lives on the road, it’s essential to have a dedicated area for work.
Thus, the Mantis 5.1 design comes with a modern workspace that can be installed or removed as needed. The front of the Mantis includes a sitting/standing desk. There is also a Lagun table that can be adjusted or removed.
If you would prefer to sit and do your work, you can sit on the front bench or ottoman and make yourself comfortable. On the other hand, you can also use this table as a standing desk! A 12V outlet is never far away when you need to set up your workstation.
The workspace doesn’t just have to be reserved for laptop work though. It can also be used to extend the countertop space in the kitchen, as extra storage space, or act as a multi-purpose table for games. You can even use it as a bedside table.
Removable bathroom
Next up, the Mantis 5.1 has an ingenious bathroom setup. Permanent bathrooms can take up a lot of space within a trailer, so this model has the option to take the bathroom outside! That might sound strange, but it’s actually a very clever design.
The shower in this unit can accommodate people who are up to 6′ 6″ tall, so you won’t have to worry about having enough head room! This exterior shower is powered by a flexible hose that can also be used for mud and sand removal. It can handle both hot and cold temperatures, so there’s no need to rely on cold showers.
In addition, this model comes with a portable toilet that can be stowed away as needed. The modular ottoman is a great place to keep this toilet when it’s not in use. If there’s not enough room within the trailer for the toilet, you can move it to the outside bathroom when you set up camp.
This removable restroom setup is the first of its kind. It enables passengers to maximize the space within the trailer without sacrificing the convenience of a mobile bathroom.
Flexible storage solutions
Another major benefit of this trailer is the storage solutions it provides. It’s always hard to find enough space for everything in a trailer, but the Mantis 5.1 makes it easy with its flexible storage options.
First of all, there is a modular ottoman that can nest into the rest of the furniture when you need to increase floor space. The ottoman itself is also modular, so it can be opened up and used for extra storage as needed.
Next up, there’s a flexible storage unit within the interior walls. This can be arranged in the way that you want and is designed to nest well, so it doesn’t take up too much space.
The built-in storage spaces in the kitchen were created with a nautical design in mind. This gives them an interesting appearance, plus it keeps everything secure while the vehicle is in motion. The sliding doors are neat and clean, and they add some visual interest to the kitchen area.
Finally, TAXA Outdoors built the new Mantis 5.1 with extra gear storage in mind. As such, there is an expanded space where larger items like bikes and scooters can be kept. With this combination of storage space, you can take everything you need with you when you travel!
Additional features
There are several other notable features of these trailers. A few of the highlights include:
- Pre-wired solar input
- Sink with a hinged lid cover
- Underbed storage space
- 16-gallon trash can
- Roof tracks for storage or roof tent setup
- 8,000 BTU air conditioner
- Exterior LED lights
- Batwind awning system
- Two-burner stove with hinged lid cover
- Storage towers with mild crate drawers
- Insulated windows with screens and shades
- Non-slip flooring
- And much more!
This list isn’t comprehensive, and the full Mantis design includes so much more. In fact, there’s too much to cover in one story, so be sure to visit taxaoutdoors.com for the full list of amenities and features.
There are also optional features and upgrades to consider. For instance, you can choose to have a folding couch or bunk bed system instead of one of the standard beds. There’s also a three-person rooftop tent that can expand your sleeping capacity.
The Adventure Bundle is a great option to keep in mind. It includes features like a Dometic fridge system, solar panels, and a fire pit kit.
About TAXA Outdoors
The Mantis 5.1 is a fantastic example of the quality and attention to detail that is inherent in the TAXA brand. This company was founded in 2014 by a NASA architect. The goal was to create high-performance trailers and adventure gear that were sustainable and eco-friendly. Every unit is manufactured in Houston, Texas and is built with durability and performance in mind.
With the arrival of the Mantis 5.1, there are now 11 different product lines under the TAXA Outdoors name. All of them are hardy and ready for adventure. If you’re interested in a trailer that goes above and beyond the industry standard, a TAXA product could be the right fit for you. As their motto goes, “Out is in!” Get ready to get outside and be comfortable while you do it.
Check out the previous TAXA Outdoors Mantis in this video tour:
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