I have several questions about the paddle shifters. Exactly how does one paddle shift properly? is it suppose to work just like a a normal 6 speed? and also is there anyway to over ride the computer to not make it override your shifting once it is put into paddle shifting(kick back) mode?

 

The shifts should work just like a 6 sp. The computer does protect the engine and will change gears if over or under revving. Likewise it won't allow you to change to a gear that would hurt the engine. The way I shift in normal driving is 1500 - 3000 rpm's. for sportier driving I try to remain above 3000 rpm.
As for the computer I've no idea how to change it, hope the rest helps.

Cheers!

 

I noticed that if you paddle shift without your gear in manual mode, computer would kick in pretty much always.

 

It will never, ever be like a manual transmission. It will always be an automatic gearbox that will let you shift gears, sometimes...

Since the op has a new MINI he hasn't got, won't have, a tune, he probably doesn't have anything that let's the car make power at or near redline, so there is no real point in going there. Your engine power is probably falling faster than revs are climbing above 5500 rpm, so you might as well shift.

1.) every time you get in the car press the sport button, or better yet get the Auto-FES auto sport module.

2.) You will need to anticipate your shifting. There is some lag between when you put in the order for a lower gear and when it will actually do it.

Practice.

(obtw, my only experience with the MINI auto was the loaner car I got when mine was in for service. Played with ot for a full day. It sure wouldn't be my first choice, and I'm old...)

 

As dathinker suggested, keeping your stocked tapped over to the left in manual mode well leave it manual, at least more often. But, you're still not permitted to do something the computer thinks is less-than-smart.

Your car has a pretty damned smart tranny; it's a bigg challenge to out-think it most of the time, save for the occasional anticipatory downshift. If you ally wanted a manual, it's too late for that now. I suggest tapping the sport button, dropping the throttle, and steering.

BTW the manual has a nice section on this.