I'm starting to think the down-thumb for modern mountain bikes around here is overstated. The versions at $1000 and below are all still pretty versatile and not "focused" in any serious way. They still have rack mounts and fender eyes. They often have fork lockouts or you can max out the preload. It's easy enough to have a set of both, say, 700c wheels with slicks and 27.5 with knobs. Yes they are going to be heavier, but if you are only going to own one bike, it's a good option.

The hybrids however will certainly be better if you aren't ever doing a wheelie or going down a trail. A dirt road is still a road.