The analogy I'd apply is whether to use hair shampoo, and conditioner--vs. an all-in-one shampoo/conditioner. Or a cleaner/wax vs. individual cleaner and wax products. The specialized products will do a better job than a combination product. You know--jack of all trades, master of none. With modern paints (perhaps since the advent of water-based paints?), a color coat, followed by a clear coat, seems to be the preferred (exclusive?) method. And I've not heard of other manufacturers making an exception for non-metallic colors. The last car I've owned that didn't have a clear coat was a 1989 Porsche. Every other car since has. And as pointed out above, you'll know when you polish or wax your car.
Ok everyone, official word from Toyota it that YES, there is a clear coat layer on black painted 2010 Prius. Though many felt it did, glad to finally put some finality to it! lol
Usually nonmetallic paint does not require a clear coat. Some manufacturers add a clear coat to black to cut down on the swirl effect. Some people like nonmetallic paint because paint chip repair is easier because there is no clear coat.
So what new cars out there still use single stage paint? According to Langka, all vehicles since 1990 are clear-coated.
All paints scratch, and a clear coat is a type of paint, only that it's clear in color. Scratches/swirls are especially noticeable on black, whether or not it's clear coated.
