OK, no probs. That's the best way to buy anyway - let someone else enjoy the swingeing depreciation first time round.
Of the previous range all the V models (for example, the petrol V5 2.3 or 2.5 V6 Diesel) were set up more firmly than the standard series anyway.
However, if you really want sporty handling then the Passat is possibly not the ultimate choice, but a good one nevertheless.
A BMW 3 series or 5 series will give a generally more involving drive than a Passat. As will some Japanese machinery: Mazda's 6 is a well kept secret. So will a Mondeo, but you know this, you have one already.
I'm not overly familiar with the current Passat but none are disappointing, just that the competition has moved on as well.