Thats why they had a law suit for the civic hybrid. If driven in heavy traffic it doesnt meet epa, like most cars. The hybrid system just helps you get better mpg. Another idea might be to go with a diesel.
When I was unemployed just dealing locally with traffic, short trips, etc thats how I got the 26mpg. I was easily able to get that up with a trip to another town as the mpg average isnt a straight average either.
Service is the same as any other car. There are a few people who rebuild batteries you can send it out to, order new ones or even get a reman from NAPA and has a 3 year warranty.
Rebuilding a battery is too labor intensive for a 100 bucks an hour mechanic. Its more for a DIYer.