If you did want something like the SV650S, but with a more upright riding position, don't count out the 650R then.
Super upright and really narrow.
There are tons of em out there, both new and used, so you can wheel and deal. Engine still gets great 50mpg+ highway fuel economy. Since theres lots of used ones, unlike on new bikes, you can easily get a test ride on em at the dealers. Ditto on the SV, so you can compare em. SV is supposed to be faster, but stock suspensions still aren't as nice as hyperbikes.
For highway use, looking at the small screen though, I'd probably get a bigger double-bubble to cut down on wind noise. For commutin' though, if you are a decent height and and don't mind the funky hunchback look and red-only color option, seems the Versys is cooler.