JAGUAR S-Type - S-Type Paintwork

Q
I bought my 2007 Radiance Red S-TYPE with 10,900 miles on the clock in February this year. In the relatively short time I have owned the car the mileage is now 22,000. I think the car is great, drives well and is more economical than I expected with average consumption being 36.7mpg.
However, I am a little disappointed at the number of chips it has acquired in the paintwork at the front end of the car. I do not think the roads I travel on are any worse than the average. Is the '07 paintwork less durable than other Jaguars or other cars with metallic paintwork, and do any manufacturers try and make paintwork resist such nicks?

A
Our understanding of the situation is that the progressive tightening of environmental restrictions has forced manufacturers, particularly those in Europe, to change over to less durable water-based paints. There are several protective 'treatments' on the market, and in most cases the buyer of a new car will be offered one (along with tinted glass etc) at the time of purchase. Their effectiveness can vary considerably.