An improved process for forming a multilayer finish on a substrate by applying a layer of a waterborne basecoating composition to the substrate, at least partially drying the coating, applying a layer of a solvent based high solids clear coating to the basecoating and curing the coatings; the improvement that is used therewith is as follows:A. a waterborne basecoating composition that has a film forming binder of an acrylic polymer neutralized with ammonia, a primary amine or a secondary amine without the presence of a tertiary amine a water dispersible or water dilutable alkylated melamine formaldehyde resin and the composition contains pigments in a pigment to binder weight ratio of about 0.5/100 to 200/100;B. a high solids solvent based clear coating composition having a film forming binder of an acrylic polymer, a polyester or a polyesterurethane and an alkylated melamine formaldehyde crosslinking agent and about 0.1-5% by weight, based on the weight of the binder, of a strong acid catalyst;wherein the basecoating composition and the clear coating composition are cured at about 100.degree.-180.degree. C. to form a glossy wrinkle free finish having an automotive quality appearance.