The invention is directed to a direct to metal coating composition containing an acrylic polyol synthesized with a phosphated monomer having improved adhesion and corrosion resistance characteristics. The invention is also directed to a method for producing a direct to metal coating composition containing an acrylic polyol synthesized with a phosphated monomer on a substrate by applying the coating composition of the invention to a metal surface. The invention is further directed to an acrylic polyol synthesized with a phosphated monomer coated article having improved adhesion and corrosion resistance characteristics.