A gradient coating is comprised of a basecoat derived from a polysiloxane prepolymer obtained from a mixture of one to three alkoxysilane monomers and at least one diepoxide monomer, and a lubricious reactant. The basecoat is applied to a substrate and dried. The lubricious reactant is then applied and allowed to permeate into the basecoat. The basecoat and lubricious reactant are then co-cured, resulting in a gradient coating composition. In addition to providing enhanced scratch and mar resistance, the gradient coating composition is solvent resistant and provides a durable hydrophobic and oleophobic surface, which makes it useful as a corrosion protectant and as a release agent.