There is no need to customize a hybrid but you can if you want to or find one that you love. If you like road bikes than find one (preferably steel as it is more flexible) that can accept fat tires. A road bike that can take 32 tires with fenders would be a great choice for commuting.
I know Jamis makes a few models that fit that mold.
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebik...roraelite.html
Otherwise it is not hard to change out bars on another bike however it might also entail changing the brake levers and shifters.