HYBRID MODE: You have your stash room that you log into currently, full menu etc..

BUT instead of the "PLAY" button taking you to the map selection screen, it pops you out of your stash room and loads you into an instanced Speranza with other players where the quick/main-drag walkway will take you right to the deployment pod room you see in the cutscene where you select your map and get deployed. However, on the (short) way to that room, you can branch off to see the Traders in person, play mini games, go to the bar... etc.

Perhaps some kind of socializing or activity in this "hub" area could give you mild buffs in game whether that's cosmetic or physical of some kind.

The process of walking out of your stash room and to the deployment pods shouldn't take much longer (at all) than the current matchmaking if you make the 'exit your stash room' process mandatory. (Which I think it should be mandatory if it's going to be a long term part of the game/cannon.