A marked Toyota Prado police car was deliberately set alight outside a private residence in Lenah Valley early this morning.

At approximately 12:15am, an off-duty police officer inside a Lenah Valley residence heard noises outside and upon investigation found the police car to be on fire.

A man wearing jeans and a grey hooded jumper was seen in the vicinity of the vehicle prior to the fire.

Shortly after he was sighted getting into a white 4WD similar to a Holden Jackaroo on Augusta Road and driving away.

A forensic examination of the police vehicle in currently underway, and investigations are continuing.

Damage to the vehicle is estimated at approximately $20,000.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in Lenah Valley area in the early hours of this morning is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (this can be done anonymously) or Hobart CIB on 6173 2605.