I used dowels to join the 3 piece body of my pinewood explorer and that has held for about 30 years. My only regret is that I did not consider the placement of the dowels carefully enough and some were visible on the narrower parts of the body, and some were partially routed out for the pup cavity.
I would be more careful if I get another go! Though if I do try another scratch build I would possible use a mitre joining router bit, or glue joint router bit.