Work van recommendations

[BENT_8]

So I've been in discussion with my employer with regards to upgrading our fleet of vans, he knows I'm a car guy and so I think he's looking to me to help him with the decision which I really appreciate.

We currently have a fleet of 3 Mercedes Sprinters and 5 previous gen Hiace.
The Sprinters are 2x LWB and 1x SWB, all we're purchased in the past 18 months and all 3 are absolute lemons.
1 came back from having a knock sensor replaced today and another has got a stuffed A/C compressor, all have sub 50k and whilst covered by warranty, the inconvenience is a big turn off.
The Hiaces are all well banged up and have racked up the K's, they need replacing as a minimum.

Obviously my first thought was Transit, I made the suggestion and he contacted his Dealer who informed him that they haven't seen a Transit in 3 months and aren't sure when they will, he was also concerned with the 10sp auto however I note that there is a 6A version available in LWB high roof.

He said he wouldn't even consider LDV.

He asked me if there was anything I'd like in particular, having driven both the old Hiace and the Sprinters and doing so in rural area's of high speed and many immovable objects, namely tree's, I suggested something with a bit more frontal protection as the Sprinter has.

He has a good relationship with a few Dealers and is arranging a weeks trial for me in both Staria Load and Hiace.

So the requirements are...
Must be one of the main players
Must be able to accommodate a standard pallet through the side door
Must have good payload
Preferably a bonneted style for added frontal protection

Thoughts and recommendations greatly accepted.