I just got my new mini CS . I 've tried reading the manual and am still confused as to how to use the shift paddles on the steering wheel. My automatic transmission seems sufficient. Why the paddles??

 

First off, welcome Eileen.
The paddles give you more control if you want to drive your car like a manual tranmission car. If you're happy just putting it in D and driving, go ahead. If you want to get a bit more performance/control out of your engine and gearbox, that's what the paddles are there for.

 

Welcome!

You never have to use the paddles. I have a 2006 MCSCa as well, and I have to tell you, I LOVE the paddles and sport shifting with the stick. It is like having manual transmission, when you want it. When you don't want it, (such as heavy traffic for myself) you turn it off.

Try it for a while one day when motoring around. It may be something you find you enjoy yourself.