You'll need 3DSMax and a specific plugin for that.
> Which program should you choose? The two main modeling programs are Autodesk Maya and Max. They are both extremely similar and it doesn't matter which one you know. I personally prefer Maya. Once you are well acquainted in either of the programs, you can watch a tutorial for the other and catch up really fast. However the programs are a bit expensive. You can get student versions for free as long as you have a .edu email, however you cannot make money off of any assets that you make in the student version.
> While not a industry standard, you can download blender for free. It's a completely different interface than the other programs but you can create quality assets with it.
It wouldn't be that difficult to update the exterior model. Hell, I could do it in 3DS in a month or two given the appropriate amount of free time. This biggest challenge concerning the visuals would be the VC. It needs a complete overhaul in both modeling and the removal of PR (Photo Real) textures that should be replaced with new, custom drawn mapped versions.
I'm talking about 3D Max the 3D modelling software suite. Well, I guess it's called 3D*S* Max more specifically.
http://www.autodesk.com/products/3ds-max/overview
I'm not talking about 3D cinema.