I owned a Scott Sub 20 for about 2-3 years back in the mid-00s. I think I bought a 2006 model. It was an XL frame with 26 in wheels. It was a fun bike, but I eventually moved to a Surly CrossCheck to alleviate the same issues you are having (I'm now riding a Long Haul Trucker and feel like I've finally found the bike I've been searching for all along).

Yes, bikes cost a lot more now than back then. More than just inflation.

I don't recall the bars on my Sub being rediculiously narrow. Have you tried bar ends?

I'm certain you can fit fatter tires on it. 35 section (700C) is what i prefer now, not sure what the equivalent in 26" is, if that's what you're riding.